Capsule review of "The Futurist: The Life and Films of James Cameron"

January 28, 2010 @ 9:11 pm

I saw the first “Terminator” in 1984 at a sparsely-attended afternoon show at the local mall, before the film became a hit, and I’ve enjoyed every one of James Cameron’s films in the theater ever since. I was surprised to learn that the studio didn’t heavily market T1 because it didn’t think it would do well—one of many tidbits I didn’t know before reading this extremely well written portrait of the most successful writer/director in the history of film. While some biographies can be overly detailed and disorganized—sometimes both at once—Keegan chronicles her subject’s work and unprecedented achievements in a way that’s streamlined, smart and highly accessible. “The Futurist” also has something else that’s often lacking in too many bios: a sharp and objective sense of humor. Even if you’re not a fan of his movies, it’s hard to remain uninspired by Cameron’s extraordinary drive, talent and ingenuity, along with Keegan’s remarkable skill in telling his story.

My Favorite Music of 2009

October 29, 2009 @ 9:06 pm

I know the year isn’t quite over but I already know I’m gonna like Weezer’s new record and I’m probably going to be too busy over the holidays to indulge in longer blog posts like this. But the holidays are all about excess—as in excessive debt, stress, social commitments, eating and family bonding—so who knows.

Let me start off by saying that I didn’t call this entry “Top 20 Records” or “Best Records of 2009” because even though I think I have exceptional taste in music—along with food, wine, movies, women, interior décor and Tokugawa-era woodblock prints—who’s to say what’s best for anyone else? My intention here is to share what I discovered or rediscovered this year and in the process, hopefully turn you on to good stuff. And yes, state my opinions. After all, it’s my blog.

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